|
Kabarnet
The journey
A road leads north along the Nakuru-Baringo road, branching off
left onto the Eldama Ravine road. A myriad number of hills are seen
as we enter the depths of the Rift valley province. The road is
tarmac the entire way, with a few rough patches but nothing that a
saloon car can't handle. Not much private traffic is seen, which is
evidence that not many tourists visit this region. Public transport
plies the route, and there are petrol stations along the way in case
you need to fuel up.
1 hour from Nakuru is Kabarnet, which is the head of Baringo
District and is set among the Tugen Hills on the western edge of the
Rift Valley. It sits at the beginning of a winding road that climbs
up the hills at the edge of the Kerio Valley. Greenery flanks us on
both sides, and it is within this landscape that the local community
has taken the initiative to begin the Kerio-Tingwa ecotourism
project, situated within the mid-rift tourism circuit. The view
displays just how much richer a land is with its natural forest
cover, a good argument against deforestation that is now rampant
countrywide.
Resting areas and a kiosk have been set up, though you may also
carry your own snacks. This viewpoint was opened in June 2005 right
next to the road so that all passers-by have a chance to disembark
and enjoy its vantage location. Kiptoo my guide then takes me
further up the road to a sister project run by the same group that
leads you to caves and waterfalls down the steep slopes. Camping
space is also available.
A platform has been constructed from where to get a clearer view.
There are two hills - Tingwa and Mugomet. Within the valley are
Fluorspar mines appearing as brown spots, while near them is Kowochi
primary school, which was named after this area Kowochi that means
‘place of bones'. It derived this description from the
violent intertribal warfare that occurred here years ago, leading to
the discovery of hundreds of skeletons. So it's not just about the
beauty of nature here, but also a good deal of history, if you get
the right guide to tell you about it.
Kabarnet Museum
The road meanders upland to Kabarnet. This is a very scenic
route, with views of Lake Baringo and the Kerio Valley.
Kabarnet is the district headquarters of Baringo District on the
western edge of the Rift Valley and is home to one of the newest of
the regional museums.
Established in 1996 in the former District Commissioner's
residence, this new museum has four main public galleries which
feature exhibits on traditional head dresses, the material culture
of the local peoples, evolution of man, toys and science for
education. The main cultures featured include those of the Keiyo /
Marakwet, Samburu, Pokot, Nandi and Kipsigis. In addition an
overview of the history of the district, from pre-colonial, colonial
and post-independence era are on display.
The Moi gallery has a fascinating display that compares Nairobi
100 years ago to Nairobi today, showing places like the railway
station, Moi Avenue, State House which was formerly known as
Government house, museum hill formerly known as Ainsworth Bridge,
among other sites.
In the large surrounding garden are located many old trees,
plants and shrubs whose scientific, vernacular and common names are
clearly indicated. And then there are the snakes- from forest cobras
to the black mamba, puff adder, viper, a moulting spitting cobra and
the boomslang with its moulted skin hanging on a nearby branch.
Other animals present include tortoises and a baboon. Accommodation rates and
images
The Western circuit:
| 
